about brandy

Let me start by telling you a little about myself. First and foremost, I am a mother. I have 3 wonderfully rowdy boys that I just love to pieces and I’ve been married to my best friend and soulmate for 15 years.

I am also a neonatal respiratory therapist with 8 years of neonatal and pediatric experience under my belt. I currently work in the neonatal intensive care unit in Tupelo as well. Needless to say…I love me some babies! You will be hard-pressed to find anyone else in this area with more experience working with tiny newborns and understanding how to pose, light, wrap, comfort and care for these precious little ones during the first moments of life. I’ve had many a client refer to me as the “baby whisperer” which thrills me to no end! Newborns are my specialty, my delight, and the light of my creative life. I love everything about them and it is my mission in life to make sure this most fleeting time of your child’s life is beautifully documented with perfect simple portraits that showcase the delicate sweetness of your new baby.

about the experience

My sessions are fun, relaxed, and playful events. We’ll chat via email or phone before the session so that I can get to know you and what you’d like to get out of our time together. Although I prefer to “shoot from the hip”, and capture the realness of everyday moments, there are times when the stage will be set for you. I’ll lead the way, then let the moments unfold. Whether I ask your kiddos to go jump on the bed or to show me their favorite toy, I’m gently directing yet still not forcing or posing. Natural reactions, real smiles, and soulful stares are where it’s at…no “cheese-ing” allowed.

Since I shoot with film, you can expect to see your images in about 2-4 weeks after the session to allow time for processing, scanning, and final selection of your gallery. Your gallery will be hosted for 6 months and during that time is when you’ll place your order for your custom handcrafted album, prints, enlargements for your home, or beautiful gallery wrapped canvas pieces to display. Ordered items will be shipped 4-6 weeks after order is placed.

All in all, this custom portrait experience is something I think every family should enjoy at least once. Yes, it’s something that must be planned for, budgeted for, or saved for…but it’s something so special and magical. Real life moments frozen in time, preserved for future generations. Something priceless to cherish for a lifetime.

what to expect…

the story
My ultimate wish is to capture the little things along with the big and share the details that make life the unpredictable, wonderful experience that it is. I want the images from your session to tell a story and I want you to have the whole story. This is why my featured product is an album, because the images from the story I tell with my camera belong in a beautiful book…together. I don’t shoot for the large formal portrait over the fireplace, I shoot the stories of your life.

newborns
Newborns sessions ideally take place at 5-10 days of life. This is the time when she is most sleepy, curled-up, flexible, and squishy. Sessions are scheduled mid-morning for the best indoor light, usually around 10am. These shoots often take longer than my typical 1-2 hour sessions so we have plenty of time to get the shots. We will take our time and follow the baby’s lead while allowing her to stop and eat as often as necessary. To make sure the session goes as smooth as possible, be sure to crank up the heat before I arrive (at least 80 degrees is best), have her undressed down to her diaper only, and try to be finishing up a feeding at session time. A full, warm baby = a sleepy, squishy baby. If there are siblings participating in the session, we’ll take those shots first, then family shots so once that’s done, little ones can be taken elsewhere while we finish with baby. For wardrobe, think simple and timeless…white tees + jeans + bare feet are perfectly gorgeous! Be sure to prepare any special keepsakes or heirlooms to be incorporated into the session before I arrive and let me know if there are any special requests for posing or shots.

children & babies
Most children are at their best bright & early in the morning. For the best lighting and moods, I shoot young children as early as possible, but no later than 9am. I’m happy to shoot either in a fun location or simply at your home. Be sure to bring non-staining drinks and snacks to keep them happy. Smarties are great for bribing cooperation! These shoots normally last an hour to an hour & a half, but sometimes less depending on the child. I love color, textures, patterns, and fun/funky clothing for children…let them be themselves!! The only thing I ask you to avoid is obvious logos or characters which can detract from the natural beauty of your child. Accessories are fabulous…think scarves, hats, fun sneakers or boots, ties for the dudes, colorful tights for the gals…you get the picture! Be sure to check out my “what to wear” board on Pinterest.  Bring the closet if you like; I’m happy to help choose what photographs best.

For babies, I love to capture them “au natural” as well, location permitting. Those chunky thighs will never be as appealing again Be sure to have plenty of diapers, wipes, cloths for mopping up drool, extra bottles (if applicable), and plenty of outfit changes.

families
I love to tell stories with my family sessions. Be it a family picnic, a trip to the park or zoo, baking cookies together, or simply hanging out at home. I want these images to mean something, to convey the love you have for your children, to show them what wonderful times you spent together, to be passed down to their own children. Sessions are scheduled either in the morning or the evening and typically last about 2 hours and can take place anywhere your heart desires (within reason, of course!). Don’t hesitate to ask for help choosing a location if you are unsure…I have plenty of suggestions up my sleeve Wardrobe should fit the occasion or story that we are telling, but bring a variety in case you want to switch it up. Feel free to look around my Pinterest board for clothing inspiration and don’t forget to have fun with it! I want to see what makes your family special, unique, and YOU!

availability

Currently taking reservations for 2012.

Payment of Session Fee required to secure your session date (session fees are transferable, but non-refundable).

Please use the contact form or email me at brandyjaggers@gmail.com to discuss your session options and reserve your spot on my calendar.

Newborn sessions are “penciled in” around the due date and locked in once the baby is born to make sure we capture the sleepy, squishy stage between 5-10 days of life. Please contact me several months in advance to schedule your newborn experience for the best possible chance of getting on my calendar. While I *try* to leave room for last minute bookings, I cannot guarantee an opening for your baby if you wait until after he is born to contact me.

Outdoor morning sessions take place at 9am (indoor at 10am), afternoon sessions start about 2 hours before sunset. Currently my Saturday sessions are booked 4-8 weeks in advance, sometimes more during the holiday season, so please contact me well in advance if you need a weekend date.